Welcome To Spain
Surrender the noise of the world for this traditional walking pilgrimage winding from Loyola to Montserrat, Spain. Let the rhythm of your steps guide you through shifting landscapes from leafy vineyards to mountain passes. Tune into the sound of your breath and let birdsong be your companion on woodland trails. Smell the sweetness of lavender fields, discover quaint villages and savour a slice of warm bread from a local bakery. We’ll immerse ourselves in “The Spiritual Exercises” — daily contemplative practices designed by St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits. This pilgrimage deepens self-understanding through solitude (learning not to be alone, but to be alone with Spirit). Develop the sensitivity to recognize guidance and find the internal freedom to respond to your purpose. If you seek mental clarity, this pilgrimage offers the space you need to separate the wheat from the chaff-- and reconnects you with what truly matters. Choose between two versions of this journey depending on your fitness level!
Is This Pilgrimage For You?
"Teach us to give, and not to count the cost."
St. Ignatius of Loyola
Itinerary Highlights
- You have options! Choose between the Active and Moderate trip, depending on your fitness level. Download the Trip Guide now.
- Discover 'The Spiritual Exercises', a method developed by St. Ignatius to deepen self-understanding.
- Touch or kiss the hand of The Black Madonna of Montserrat, a holy sculpture revered for centuries.
- Meditate in the serene Cave of Manresa where Ignatius retreated for contemplative prayer. In the silence, listen for what your hearts longs to share.
- Stroll in Zaragoza, founded in 14 BC. Dozens of palaces and monuments mark the rise and fall of civilizations.
- Climb the soaring mountains of Aizkorri-Aratz National Park to reach awe-inspiring Sanctuary Arantzazu.
- Step into Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Admire the tree-like pillars and multicoloured stained glass windows that make it feel like a kaleidoscope forest.
- Unwind in community during evening sharing circles and connect with fellow pilgrims about your experiences.
- Relax on Barcelona’s sun-soaked beaches and indulge in well- earned Mediterranean tapas after our long walk!
Interested in more details? We've created TWO versions of this journey, designed for different fitness levels. Download a Day-by-Day itinerary to help you decide which journey is right for you. Click here to receive yours!
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Thrill
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Freedom
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Intricate
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Delicate
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Friendship
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Contemplate
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Artistic
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Meow
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Happy
Praise for this Journey
"Nina is one of those people who always has a sparkle in her eye. Whether listening to a friend, sharing in laughter, or delighting in something she’s recently learned, her inspired nature is contagious. Nina is also one of those rare people who expertly employs compassionate communication. Her authentic, non-formulaic approach to listening fosters a natural connection in which one can’t help but open up. I can’t count the number of times Nina has deftly opened the door to deeper heart to heart conversation without me taking notice until after I had shifted from tense to relaxed, confused to clear, conflicted to enlightened."
Eden, British Columbia, Canada
Nina Hirlaender
Nina Hirlaender is the creator of Dancing Spirit. Her extensive experience in theology, community building and storytelling create a reflective spiritual journey. Nina is passionate about helping you feel the sacred as a powerful source of joy and meaning. She teaches around the globe on pilgrimages and workshops, and is honored to work alongside such bestselling authors as Caroline Myss and Dr. Robert Holden. Launching this pilgrimage in Spain is inspired by Nina having completed the 40-day Spiritual Exercises at the Ignatius Jesuit Centre in Guelph, Canada. She longs to share these Ignatian methods with you because they are a powerful set of tools (not dogmas) that help you not only make important life decisions, but follow the call of Spirit in life’s ordinary moments.
Interested in More Info? Terrific!
We’ve created a highly detailed Trip Guide to help you decide if this journey is right for you. Choose between the ACTIVE (intermediate level) and MODERATE (beginner level) walking pilgrimages. There's something for everyone! Simply fill out the form below, and you’ll receive a downloadable PDF to your inbox, including an in-depth itinerary, what’s included in the Package. We're excited to hear from you!